Melanoma is also referred to a malignant melanoma because it is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma spreads rapidly once it develops. Early detection and treatment provide a high cure rate, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The cancer usually begins on the surface of the skin, which can help with detection. Melanoma also develops under the nails and in rare cases in an eye, the mouth or genitals.
Function
Melanoma develops from melanocyte cells that produce the skin pigment melanin responsible for skin and hair color, the National Institutes of Health explains. After appearing on the surface area, melanoma can grow deep into the skin spreading to other tissues. It can invade blood and lymphatic vessels to reach areas throughout the body.
Theories/Speculation
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation plays a role in causing melanoma, especially in fair-skinned people. Melanoma can happen to anyone, however, and it has been diagnosed in people of all skin colors, the American Academy of Dermatology notes. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation in tanning booths may increase the risk of melanoma. Areas exposed to the sun are vulnerable, including the upper back, torso, legs, head and neck.
Considerations
The risk of developing melanoma increases with age, but young people also increase the risk by participating in outdoor activities and being exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Fair-skinned people with blue or green eyes and red or blond hair have a high risk of getting melanoma, the National Institutes of Health says. Experiencing sunburns during childhood or use of tanning devices increases the risk of melanoma. A family history of melanoma is a risk factor. Having abnormal moles or multiple birthmarks may increase the risk. Other risk factors include exposure to cancer-causing chemicals, including arsenic and coal tar, a weakened immune system because of AIDS, some leukemias and medications for certain illnesses.
Types
The four types of melanoma include superficial spreading melanoma, which is the most common, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Growths appear anywhere on the body as flat or raised discolored patches with irregular borders. Colors may be tan, brown, black, red, blue or white. Lentigo maligna develops as a flat or slightly elevated tan, brown or dark brown discoloration on the face, ears, arms and trunk. Acral lentiginous melanoma appears as black or brown discoloration under the nails, on the soles of the feet or on the palms of the hands. It is the most common melanoma in African-Americans and Asians. Nodular melanoma is the most aggressive form of the cancer. It appears as a black, blue, gray, white, brown, tan, red or skin color bump.
Treatment
Dermatologists perform biopsies to examine suspicious growths. Complete surgical removal of the melanoma and surrounding tissue is usually necessary, the American Academy of Dermatology explains. Surrounding skin is removed to make sure all cancer cells are removed. Melanomas that are not detected early need further testing to see if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other areas of the body. In addition to surgery, immunotherapy, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be used.
